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Missouri Lawmakers Look to Charters to Revamp Transfer Law

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  Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that would require public school districts to sell certain vacant buildings to charter schools that request them.

Republican Rep. David Wood of Versailles on Monday discussed the measure, which is part of an effort to revamp the state's student transfer law.

Lawmakers turned to charters after Gov. Jay Nixon last year vetoed legislation to allow students to transfer to private, nonreligious schools.

Supporters say expanding charters might require measures to make it easier for them to buy or lease buildings because traditional public schools sometimes are reluctant to sell to charters because of potential competition for students.

Kansas City Public Schools Superintendent Steve Green said he opposes the bill because it would take away local control and create discord.

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